In a heart-stopping NFC divisional playoff clash, the Los Angeles Rams overcame both freezing conditions and a dramatic late fightback from the Chicago Bears to secure a 20-17 overtime victory at Soldier Field on Sunday night.
Stafford Steers Rams Through Icy Conditions
The Rams, led by quarterback Matthew Stafford, appeared to have the game sealed with a 17-10 lead as the clock ticked down to its final minute. However, the Bears, facing a fourth-and-four from the Rams' 14-yard line, had one last miracle in their locker. Rookie sensation Caleb Williams evaded the pass rush, backpedaled, and launched an improbable 14-yard touchdown pass to tight end Cole Kmet with just 18 seconds remaining. The throw, which travelled an astonishing 51.2 yards in the air according to NFL Next Gen Stats, sent the home crowd into a frenzy and forced overtime.
Overtime Drama Seals Rams' Victory
The Bears' joy was short-lived. On their first possession of the extra period, Williams' deep pass was intercepted by safety Kam Curl. Stafford then calmly engineered a drive, connecting with receiver Puka Nacua for a crucial 16-yard gain to move into field goal range. This set the stage for kicker Harrison Mevis, nicknamed the "Thiccer Kicker," who drilled a 42-yard field goal to win the game, silencing the Chicago crowd and sparking wild celebrations among the Rams players.
Road to the Championship Set
With this nail-biting win, the Rams advance to the NFC Championship Game for the first time since their Super Bowl-winning 2021 season. They will travel to face their NFC West rivals, the Seattle Seahawks, next Sunday with a place in the Super Bowl on the line. For the Bears, a valiant season under first-year coach Ben Johnson ends in agonising fashion. Williams threw for two touchdowns but was also intercepted three times in the losing effort.
The victory sets up a blockbuster championship weekend, with the New England Patriots set to face the Denver Broncos in the AFC title game.
